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Overview of Pacifica

Long recognized as a stunning natural getaway with cool temperatures and celebrated surfing, the coastal city of Pacifica offers a scenic shoreline to residents of the entire San Francisco area. Pacifica was consolidated from a series of small coastal communities, and it retains both its small town feel and outdoorsy character while offering great dining, shopping and entertainment.

People looking for apartments for rent in Pacifica can seek out dramatic views and isolated escapes, all with convenient access to one of the world's most dynamic and culturally rich communities.

Living in Pacifica, CA

Originally composed of a string of local communities, Pacifica was incorporated in 1957. While developers expected extensive growth for a location so close to San Francisco, preservation efforts allowed the city to retain much of its natural terrain, and residents today benefit from extensive parkland and a small town community. The twelve neighborhoods each have a distinct character, and residents can find great things to do in Rockaway Beach, Vallemar, Linda Mar, Edgemar, Pacific Manor, Fairmont and elsewhere.

Pacifica apartments in any neighborhood provide access to the city's legendary beaches, great businesses and outdoor escapes. Residents will appreciate the city's convenience while at the same time enjoying its distinctly serene environment.

Pacifica Work and Study

While there are no colleges in Pacifica itself, many students head to Skyline College, City College of San Francisco or San Francisco State University, all just minutes away. The nearby city of San Francisco puts the resources of many other celebrated colleges and universities at residents' disposal.

Many Pacifica residents make the 15-minute commute to San Francisco or work elsewhere in the area's prominent tech sector. The main Pacifica employers are the local schools and government, as well as retail. Top employers include Pacifica School District, the grocery retailer Safeway, and the City of Pacifica.

Rentals in Pacifica, CA and Cost of Living

The majority of Pacifica residents are homeowners, but there are many great rental options, especially in high end units with breathtaking views of the water. With such striking beauty so close to San Francisco, Pacifica is not cheap, but it is competitive with the rest of the area.

U.S. Census Bureau data showed the median gross rent from 2008 to 2010 was $1,552. Additional research found one bedroom apartments renting for between $1,200 and $3,500 per month. According to City-Data, the cost of living index was 147.8, nearly 48 points higher than the national average.

Pacifica Attractions and Special Events

With renowned surfing at destinations like Rockaway Beach and Linda Mar Beach, it's no surprise that Pacifica is a haven for outdoor and extreme sports enthusiasts. In addition to surfers, Pacifica caters to skateboarders with a celebrated skate park and mountain bikers with a range of local trails. Hikers will also enjoy escaping into the area hills or trekking along the beaches, while fishermen can take advantage of the Pacifica Pier and local beaches to catch salmon and more. Golfers can head to the popular Sharp Park Golf Course. With its stunning natural beauty, Pacifica is the ideal home for people seeking an active community.

Pacifica is home to the Pacifica Islanders, a minor league football team, and residents can enjoy shows from the Pacifica Spindrift Players and music and art at Pacifica Performances. Historical attractions include Sam's Castle, a turn-of-the century home built to resemble a Scottish castle. With great shopping and dining spread out across the town's communities and even more options available in nearby cities like San Francisco, Pacifica offers something for everyone.

To find your next rental apartment or house in Pacifica, take a look at our listings on Rent.com®.